Last week, the ACA sent a letter to Minister Marc Miller expressing our concerns about proposed reductions to the Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) and Proactive Access functions at Library and Archives Canada (LAC).

The proposed $13.6M reduction in federal funding will impact positions in the ATIP Branch and across the organization. Cuts to ATIP functions will adversely affect the ways in which information is accessible to the public. Canadians attempting to access information about personal and national histories already face significant barriers to access.

As records professionals, we recognize the importance of creating, preserving and providing access to records as an essential element of a healthy democracy. Open access to records promotes democracy and protects citizens’ rights. Accessing information in Library and Archives Canada is also a component of supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. These proposed cuts will hinder that access.

Read the letter here. 

The Board of Directors for the Association of Canadian Archivists